The Elkhart County Symphony Orchestra (ECSO) has always believed that great music belongs to everyone. As families across Northern Indiana continue to navigate rising costs for everyday necessities, we’re committed to ensuring that live orchestral music remains an experience that families, students, seniors, and music lovers can continue to enjoy together.
That’s why, for Season 79—Stories in Sound: Prelude to 80—we’ve made an important decision: season ticket prices for 2026-27 will remain unchanged from last year. Even better, our popular season package continues to offer five concerts for the price of four, along with discounts for seniors and students, making the Symphony one of the region’s best entertainment values.
But we also recognize another important truth.
The extraordinary performances our audiences enjoy are only possible because of the exceptional musicians who dedicate countless hours to rehearsing, performing, and sharing their artistry with our community. Supporting affordable access and supporting our musicians shouldn’t be an either-or decision.
Increasing access AND investment
We believe in the power of AND.
“We don’t believe this has to be an either-or decision,” says incoming Executive Director Glenn Northern. “We can work to keep concerts affordable for our community and continue investing in the musicians who make the Elkhart County Symphony such a special organization. When people purchase tickets, attend concerts, volunteer, and make charitable gifts and donations, they’re helping ensure that great music remains accessible while supporting the artists and programs that enrich our region.”
That philosophy is reflected throughout Season 79, one of the most exciting and artistically diverse seasons in Symphony history.
Season 79 begins with ¡Ritmo Botánico! at Wellfield Botanic Gardens, a colorful celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month featuring principal oboist Heidi Eash. The season continues with Duel Vi2lity, welcoming acclaimed young cellist Khari Joyner, followed by the monumental Verdi Requiem in collaboration with the Camerata Singers and Goshen College Choirs. Cinematic Symphony brings beloved movie music to life under guest conductor Michael Stern while showcasing the winner of the returning Elkhart County Symphony Youth Concerto Competition, before the season concludes with Planetary Finale, featuring the innovative percussion ensemble pax duo and selections from Holst’s The Planets.
The return of the Youth Concerto Competition is another exciting step forward for the Symphony. Reviving this beloved tradition reflects our renewed commitment to music education and to creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation of musicians throughout Northern Indiana.
As Conn-Selmer Endowed Music Director Dr. Soo Han explains, “Great orchestras do more than perform concerts. They cultivate audiences, nurture talent, foster confidence, and serve as cultural anchors for their communities.”
As we look ahead to our landmark 80th season, our mission remains unchanged: present inspiring performances, invest in young musicians, strengthen our community, and keep world-class orchestral music within reach for everyone.
YOUR support is crucial to our mission
Every season ticket purchased, every donation made, and every concert attended helps us continue our important mission of bringing world-class orchestral music, music education, and community engagement to Elkhart County.
Contribute today, and make sure to purchase your Season Tickets for Season 79 in-person at The Lerner Theatre Box Office, 410 S. Main St. in downtown Elkhart, or by calling the Box Office at (574) 293-4469!
We can’t wait to share Stories in Sound: Prelude to 80 with you. Join us this season—and help us continue proving that the best community orchestras are built on the power of AND.
ABOUT THE ELKHART COUNTY SYMPHONY
The Elkhart County Symphony Association employs more than 100 professional musicians in the county. The organization promotes cultural experiences and instills civic pride in our community by encouraging artistic integrity, providing innovative opportunities, and presenting excellent musical programming through concerts, education, and special events.